Bsun Cliff vs. Gateron Glory Yellow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Gateron Glory Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can vary widely based on typing style and usage needs. The Bsun Cliff tactile switch stands out with its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making it an invigorating choice for those who appreciate a pronounced feedback during typing. This tactile response can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction, ideal for both casual typing and intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch offers a smooth keystroke with a pleasing travel distance, perfect for users who prioritize a seamless and uninterrupted typing experience. This makes it an excellent option for fast-paced typists or gamers seeking quick, fluid keystrokes without the distraction of tactile bumps or clicks. Each switch has its unique appeal, catering to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Cliff and the Gateron Glory Yellow switches showcase distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The Cliff utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and translucency, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. This material is particularly advantageous for those who wish to incorporate RGB lighting since it allows light to pass through effectively. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Yellow features a nylon top housing, which, due to its softer composition, tends to absorb sound more, leading to a deeper and rounder acoustic experience. Consequently, while the Cliff offers a more vibrant auditory feedback suitable for a brighter sound signature, the Glory Yellow provides a more subdued, plush typing experience, catering to users who may prefer less sharpness in their keystrokes.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing. This commonality means that both switches will exhibit a fuller and deeper sound profile when the key is bottomed out. The nylon material in the bottom housing contributes to sound absorption, enhancing the overall typing experience by providing a rounded feel. Even though the top housings differ significantly—one offering a clearer and more resonant sound and the other a softer and muted tone—the bottom housing ensures a consistent foundation of sound quality across both models. Thus, users can expect a satisfying bottom-out experience regardless of their choice, thanks to the nylon material's influence.
Ultimately, the combinational impact of the housing materials in the Bsun Cliff and Gateron Glory Yellow can lead to various typing experiences based on personal preference. The Cliff's harder polycarbonate top gives it a unique sound signature that is bright and clear while still benefiting from the plush fullness of the nylon bottom. Meanwhile, the Gateron Glory Yellow provides a soft and rounded typing sensation influenced by its completely nylon makeup. Therefore, while the differences in top housing materials stand out, the shared attributes of the nylon bottom housing create an appealing synergy that can lead to satisfying results in terms of sound and feel in both switches.
Weight
The Bsun Cliff tactile switch features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom-out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience for extended use, whether in a work setting or during long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and lacks a defined bottom-out force, which is unknown. This difference suggests that the Cliff switch provides a lighter feel compared to the Glory Yellow, catering to users who favor a softer touch for prolonged typing, while the Glory Yellow appeals to those who desire a firmer push for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, if users prioritize lighter switches, the Bsun Cliff is the optimal choice, while those who prefer a heavier actuation will find the Gateron Glory Yellow more satisfying, despite its unknown bottom-out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Cliff switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Glory Yellow extends slightly longer at 4 mm. This means that the Bsun Cliff offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate activation. In contrast, the Gateron Glory Yellow, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel that some users prefer for typing or gaming, as it delivers a greater depth in each keystroke. Overall, if you favor a snappier, more responsive experience, the Bsun Cliff would be the preferable choice, while the Gateron Glory Yellow caters to those who appreciate a more traditional, deeper keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
The Gateron Glory Yellow has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Yellow for $4.19.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When considering the sound profile of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch, it is characterized by a crisp sound signature that adds a refreshing auditory element to your typing experience. While the specific sound of the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch isn’t detailed, linear switches generally produce a quieter operation due to their lack of tactile feedback. This means that if you prefer a more pronounced audio cue while typing, the Cliff will likely offer more satisfaction compared to the smoother but quieter Glory Yellow.
In terms of feel, the Cliff tactile switch is described as invigorating, featuring pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. This snappy and reactive feel provides a stimulating typing sensation that keeps the user's engagement high. On the other hand, the Gateron Glory Yellow, being a linear switch, offers a smooth keystroke and pleasant travel distance, resulting in a different typing experience that prioritizes fluidity over tactile feedback. This contrast means that while the Cliff brings more excitement and response, the Glory Yellow caters to users looking for a seamless typing experience without interruptions.
Overall, the choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch largely comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. If you enjoy pronounced tactile feedback and a crisp auditory response, the Cliff will serve you well. Conversely, if you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience with consistent keystrokes, the Glory Yellow fits that bill. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to differing user experiences, ensuring that whether you seek invigoration or fluidity, there's a suitable option available.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a tactile experience with a noticeable feedback and a crisp sound that enhances the typing experience, the Bsun Cliff is an excellent choice. Its light bottom-out force of 45 grams makes it suitable for rapid typing and prolonged use without fatigue, giving you that invigorating sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke that allows for fluid typing without tactile bumps, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch would be more appealing. Known for its enjoyable travel distance and the lack of tactile feedback, it's perfect for gamers or those who type quickly and prefer a subtle yet satisfying sound profile. Ultimately, assess what feels more comfortable for you—whether it’s the engaging tactile feel of the Cliff or the seamless flow of the Glory Yellow—as this will enhance your overall keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
